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Lewis would like to return to Texas next season

Lewis would like to return to Texas next season

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Lewis escapes a jam 0:22

7/18/12: Colby Lewis gets Derek Norris to pop out to short, working out of a bases-loaded jam without surrendering a run in the fourth

By T.R. Sullivan
/
MLB.com |

ARLINGTON -- The Rangers signed pitcher Colby Lewis to a contract extension one year ago. Lewis was coming off surgery to repair a torn flexor tendon, and Texas signed him to a one-year, incentive-laden contract in the hopes he would be able to pitch for the club this season.

Right now, there have been no similar discussions three weeks after Lewis underwent replacement surgery on his right hip. Lewis still wants to return to the Rangers, and the club has left open the possibility. But after undergoing two different operations, Lewis will likely have to take a Minor League contract with a Spring Training invite rather than a guaranteed deal.

"I'd love to come back," Lewis said Friday. "I'm a free agent and we'll see how things go. I don't know what they will have to offer. ... We're going to see which teams are willing to take a shot. If it's all equal, I'm definitely coming back."

Lewis was 32-29 with a 3.93 ERA in 80 starts over three seasons with the Rangers after signing as a free agent. He was 4-1 with a 2.34 ERA in eight postseason starts. But, besides his arm issues, he was dealing with a chronic sore right hip for several years and finally decided to have the surgery. Lewis said he is now pain-free.

"For me to be able to sleep comfortably, it's amazing," Lewis said. "Not having to tie my shoe at a crazy angle. ... It has been great as far as quality of life. I'm excited to see how it feels to get down off the mound and field my position and have no pain when I pitch."